When it comes to choosing a place to move with your family, there’s rarely a more difficult decision. With so many places all over the globe, how can you narrow it down? Many families in America and beyond consider the US state of California an option due to its access to opportunities, beautiful weather, and cultural significance. Is moving to California a good idea for your family, however? It’s essential to begin with thorough research to weigh the options carefully.
Climate and Outdoor Recreation
If you love the outdoors, California is an excellent place to settle down. While the state is diverse in terms of climate, with colder regions located in the north and hotter regions in the south, most of the state experiences mild weather year-round. Coastal recreation and national parks are plentiful here. You can easily incorporate any type of outdoor activity into your lifestyle, especially if you love warm weather and sunshine. There are mountains, deserts, beaches, and rich forests in California—something for everyone to enjoy.
Educational Opportunities
You want your kids to have access to a decent education, and you’ll find no shortage of that in California. From public schools to private universities, California has some of the top educational institutions in the country, including Stanford, UC Berkeley, and UCLA. Look closely at the school districts in the areas you’re considering, as not every school in California is rated highly. Public schools, in particular, can vary in quality depending on their funding and the surrounding neighborhood.
(Steep) Cost of Living
One of the biggest drawbacks to a California lifestyle is the cost of living. Houses there are some of the most expensive in the world, even if you head outside of major cities. The further you go into rural areas, the cheaper it becomes, but it is still above America’s national average. The median single-family home price statewide is a shocking $910,000. Housing isn’t the only cost of living that is higher here; gas, groceries, and many utilities are also above the American average. Jobs pay well here, because they have to. You will have access to numerous high-paying industries, including entertainment, technology, education, and healthcare. The minimum wage is expected to be nearly $17 an hour in 2026, but most entry-level jobs pay at least $20. You’ll need a substantial amount of funding to relocate to California, regardless of your current location. Buying a home will cost you nearly $1 million on average, so you’ll need to weigh the decision carefully. You’ll need home insurance that can cover earthquakes and wildfires, as well as your location, which may drive up premiums.
Safety Considerations
When you’re moving anywhere with your family, safety is likely among your top priorities. Since California is such a diverse area, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to safety. The more rural you are, the more likely you’ll find a tight-knit, low-crime community; however, law enforcement response times tend to be slower the more “off the grid” you become. Larger cities, such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, will have higher crime rates. Suburbs tend to be family-friendly, but do your research before choosing a neighborhood, especially if you’re planning to live in a major urban hub. Law enforcement is larger and has the resources for faster responses in these larger areas. California has rent control and other tenant-friendly laws if you’re planning on renting. Be sure to research any daycares, schools, or other places your children will frequent; you can read up on the updates to several sexual abuse lawsuits in California to get a good idea of the situations in which they can occur.
Apart from crime, California is infamous for its frequent earthquakes due to its proximity to a major fault line. Wildfires can often occur in warmer, drier regions. You will need to be prepared to evacuate and protect yourself from these events when moving there.
Lifestyle and Culture
There is plenty to see, do, and celebrate in California. No two cities are alike due to California’s immense size and diverse appeal to many different cultures, races, and backgrounds. The state tends to lean politically liberal overall, with many protections for LGBTQ+ citizens, immigrants, and other civil rights. Urban areas are fast-paced, especially if you’re eyeing Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Diego. It’s home to Silicon Valley, a major tech economic hub, as well as the global home of the film and entertainment industry in Hollywood. You’ll find numerous cultural festivals, such as the Rose Parade, San Francisco Pride, and Coachella. In addition to outdoor recreation, there is no shortage of zoos, museums, and theme parks. Disneyland, the San Diego Zoo, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium are among the most notable favorites among locals and visitors alike.
Conclusion
Moving to California can offer your family a rewarding lifestyle, complete with rich culture, outdoor recreation, excellent job opportunities, and top-notch schools. However, life there can be fast-paced and incredibly expensive, pricing out most families right at the door. There is no shortage of things to do, but the mild temperatures year-round may deter those who miss more noticeable winters. Not all schools are of decent quality, and larger cities may have some safety concerns for families. Choosing a home is a difficult decision, but knowing your options and researching areas beforehand can help you select what is best for your family and lifestyle.
